An Actual Notecard
A quick note of gratitude doesn’t have to be long or overly eloquent. Just try to come up with three or four simple sentences. Type it out on your computer or your phone’s notes app first so you can finesse and edit before actually putting it down in ink. Adding a date isn’t necessary, but can be nice for posterity sake. If it’s printed with your name, crossing out your last name is an old school touch—it signifies you’re close and on a first-name basis with the recipient. Of course, remember to sign it: either your first name or just an initial.
An Email or Text
While a paper note will never not be appreciated, etiquette expert Maralee McKee says that there are circumstances, especially these days, where an email or text is sufficient. If you don’t have the person’s physical address or when an email or text message is the next form of contact that you’ll be having with the other person. This happens most often in work situations with colleagues, she says. For example: when you email promised documents just hours after having lunch with coworkers, or clients, you’ll want to thank them for lunch. Or if you’ve just been on a job interview: Immediate follow-up is essential, says McKee. You’ll want to express your gratitude (and reiterate any ideas you discussed about the job), and you’ll likely want to do it fast.
